The Rocking Present

By JEN

Rocking around the Christmas tree at the Christmas party hop… was Alison’s present.

The box had appeared under the tree just before the guests arrived, with a big bow and a tag that said: “To: Alison, From: Santa.” When the party music started, Alison’s gift began to rock, jump and bump around the tree. And Alison knew why.

She hoped Santa had got it right. Alison had whispered into Santa’s ear so her big brother wouldn’t hear. If Brandon knew what she was asking for, he would laugh at her.

“All I want for Christmas is an under-bed monster.”

​Alison thought about Santa’s big eyes when he'd asked, “Won’t you be scared?”

“Oh nonononononono, not that kind. I want one that protects me from other monsters, and helps hide stuff when Mom tells me to clean my room.”

“I think I have one of those." Santa had winked. "Do you know how to take care of it?”

“Yep.” Alison would make her bed so its fluffy fur wouldn't get sunburned - she had said 'fluffy fur', right? - and clean out the dust bunnies once a month.

​“Ho, ho, ho, you have done your homework.” Santa had said, promising she'd get one if she was extra good.

And now, on Christmas Eve, Alison’s gift was dancing around the Christmas tree! Yep, it was her monster. She couldn't wait to open it. Probably would be hungry, though.

Alison headed for the laundry room, and saw Brandon digging in the hamper. Oh nonononononono, what was he doing here?

​She hid behind the door until Brandon left. Then she found a particularly smelly sock to carry back to the tree.

Where she ran right into Brandon. He stood by his gift from Santa, holding a dirty sock. ​Like Alison’s present, this present was rocking, and bumping around the tree. It was also growling. Alison looked at her big brother and laughed.